News From Nigeria
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against President Muhammadu Buhari “over his failure to probe allegations that over N11 trillion meant to provide regular electricity supply since 1999 may have been stolen, mismanaged or diverted into private pockets.”
Nigerian cities have repeatedly been plunged into darkness as the electricity grid has reportedly collapsed at least three times in 5 months, and 130 times in 7 years. According to the World Bank, epileptic power supply costs businesses in Nigeria about $29 billion yearly.
In the suit number FHC/L/CS/1119/2022 filed last week at the Federal High Court, Lagos, SERAP is seeking “an order of mandamus to direct and compel President Buhari to investigate how over N11 trillion meant to provide regular electricity supply has been allegedly squandered by governments since 1999.”
SERAP is also seeking “an order of mandamus to compel President Buhari to ensure the prosecution of anyone suspected to be responsible for the missing electricity fund, as appropriate, and to ensure the tracing and full recovery of any missing public funds.”
SERAP is arguing that, “It is in the public interest to ensure justice and accountability for alleged corruption and mismanagement in the electricity sector, which has resulted in the failure of governments to solve Nigeria’s perennial power problem.”
According to SERAP, “The staggering amounts of public funds alleged to have been stolen over the years in the sector have had catastrophic effects on the lives of millions of Nigerians, akin to crimes against humanity against the Nigerian people.”
SERAP is arguing that, “The failure to trace, find and recover the missing electricity fund is antithetical to the public interest, the requirements of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], and the country’s international obligations.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “Nigerians have for far too long been denied justice and the opportunity to get to the bottom of why they continue to pay the price for corruption in the electricity sector–staying in darkness, but still made to pay crazy electricity bills.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “Investigating the allegations of missing N11 trillion electricity funds, prosecuting suspected perpetrators and recovering any missing public funds would end a culture of impunity. It would also address persistent collapse of the electricity grid, and improve access to and affordability of electricity in the country.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “Corruption in the electricity sector and the lack of transparency and accountability in the use of public funds to support the operations of DISCOS have resulted in regular blackouts, electricity grid collapse, and unlawful hike in electricity tariffs.”
SERAP is also seeking “an order of mandamus to direct and compel President Buhari to refer to the International Criminal Court all unimplemented reports of corruption in the electricity sector gathering dust on the shelves, and to arrest and surrender those named in the reports to the court for prosecution.”
Joined in the suit as Respondent is Mr Abubakar Malami, SAN, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.
The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers Kolawole Oluwadare and Ms Adelanke Aremo, read in part: “Nigeria has made legally binding commitments under the UN Convention against Corruption to ensure accountability in the management of public resources. These commitments ought to be fully upheld and respected.”
“Corruption in the electricity sector has also continued to disproportionately affect the most disadvantaged and vulnerable sectors of the population who cannot readily afford expensive generators in order to have a reliable power supply.”
“The failure of successive governments and high-ranking government officials to prevent corruption in the electricity sector and to bring suspected perpetrators to justice is the primary cause of the persistent crisis in the electricity sector, including the exploitation of electricity consumers, and collapse of the electricity grid.”
“The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has adjudged the failure of the States to provide basic services such as electricity as violating the right to health.”
“Citizens are frustrated at persistent allegations of corruption in the sector, and the impacts on their human rights. Prosecuting perpetrators would address the grave travesty that has for many years occurred in the power sector.”
“Impunity for corruption in the electricity sector has for many years forced ordinary Nigerians to stay in darkness, but still made to pay crazy electricity bills.”
“Successive governments have failed to increase power generation and provide Nigerians with regular and uninterrupted electricity supply, with many electricity contracts shrouded in secrecy, and trillions of Naira going down the drain.”
“Impunity for corruption in the electricity sector will continue as long as high-ranking public officials go largely unpunished for their alleged crimes.”
“The Buhari administration has legal obligations under Section 15(5) of the Nigerian Constitution to abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power, and article 26 of the UN Convention against Corruption to ensure effective prosecution of allegations of corruption.”
“Alleged corruption and mismanagement in the electricity sector and the repeated collapse of the electricity grid have continued to deprive Nigerians of economic opportunities, subjecting them to cruel and degrading treatment.”
“Under Section 16(1) of the Constitution, the government has a responsibility to ‘secure the maximum welfare, freedom and happiness of every citizen on the basis of social justice and equality of status and opportunity.’”
“Section 16(2) further provides that, ‘the material resources of the nation are harnessed and distributed as best as possible to serve the common good.’”
“The failure by successive governments to tell Nigerians the truth about allegations of corruption in the power sector amounts to a failure to ensure that electricity services are progressively made available, on the basis of equality and non-discrimination.”
“The details of the missing N11 trillion electricity funds are contained in a SERAP report titled: From Darkness to Darkness: How Nigerians are paying the Price for Corruption in the Electricity Sector.”
“According to the report, the total estimated financial loss to Nigeria from corruption in the electricity sector starting from the return to democracy in 1999 to date is over N11 trillion. This represents public funds, private equity and social investment (or divestments) in the power sector.”
“It is estimated that the loss may reach over N20 trillion in the next decade given the rate of Government investment and funding in the power sector amidst dwindling fortune and recurrent revenue shortfalls.”
No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
26/6/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s victory, a good omen – Kogi Central Leaders
Notable Kogi State leaders on Thursday reacted to the victory of Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in Wednesday’s senatorial primary, saying it was ‘’a great result’’
‘’Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has done enough to endear herself to every household. She will set straight Kogi Central’s journey to greatness and deliver the dividends of democracy to the people’’
The leaders in a statement in Lagos described the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial flag bearer as a visionary leader, bridge builder, stickler for excellence and blessing to Kogi State.
‘’Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is articulate, knowledgeable and gentle. She has contributed so much to elevate the status of Ebiraland’’
The leaders said nothing would stop Akpoti-uduaghan from clinching the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in 2023.
‘’Kogi Central is PDP. Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has crowd-pulling power like no one else in Kogi politics. We strongly believe in her candidacy. We are just waiting for the 2023 elections. We know she will win’’
Signed by the Chairman of Ebira National Forum (ENF), Chief Itopa Jatto, the respectable Ebira leaders stated that the political terrain in Kogi Central Senatorial District has started taking a different shape.
‘’We want to see a more human side to the Government. Kogi Central All Progressives Congress (APC) is already heading for the rocks’’
‘’Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is straightforward and absolutely reliable. We will definitely vote PDP in 2023. She will use the opportunity of going to the Senate to transform Kogi Central, improve the standard of living of the people, engender prosperity and keep the dream of the Ajaokuta Steel Plant alive’’ the statement added.
A Yoruba body, South-West Renewal Movement (SWRM), on Sunday threw a surprise by endorsing All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential hopeful, Senator Godswill Akpabio for the 2023 presidency.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio has remained the darling of the South-West people. He is a purposeful leader in Nigeria, a veritable model and always thirsty for legacies’’.
.The group said it would mobilize APC delegates in the South-West geo-political zone to support Akpabio in the ruling party’s presidential primaries.
At a three-hour long meeting in Akure, Ondo State to finalize their strategy for the APC presidential primaries, the group applauded Akpabio for offering to serve the country at the highest pedestal.
Soft-spoken APC chieftain and chairman of SWRM, Chief Olusola Adebamgbe said at the meeting attended by prominent APC leaders from Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Ekiti, Osun and Ondo that notable South-West politicians, business tycoons and traditional rulers were working with politicians from other geo-political zones to make Akpabio the country’s next president.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is the man who can guarantee national peace and unity when elected president in 2023’’
The development conscious group commended the front runner in the race for the presidency in 2023 for making a difference in Akwa Ibom State, National Assembly and the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
The group underscored Akpabio’s experience, antecedent, credibility and charisma.
It emphasized Akpabio’s robust vision for Nigeria, the feats recorded in the Niger Delta region and the judicious utilization of human and natural resources in Akwa Ibom State.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio has the potential of becoming the best president. He will encourage foreign investment, boost economic growth, create more jobs, deal with insecurity, pursue policies and principles of women empowerment, provide the enabling environment for the emergence of industries and shift resources to the state governments for positive efforts in roads, health, water and educational infrastructure’.
The group also emphasized Akpabioi’s solid network of allies that he has and the followership he is attracting based on his performance and leadership style.
The South-West group is backing Akpabio for the 2023 presidency.
Stakeholders in the politics of the North-East geo-political zone on Thursday reacted to the spate of criticisms and outright falsehood against the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress
(APC), Senator Iyiola Omisore, saying it was in bad faith.
The leaders described Omisore as a man of profound moral rectitude.
The leaders in a statement in Damaturu, capital of Yobe State, said influential Yoruba leaders should rise in condemnation of the uncomplimentary remarks on Omisore, crude propaganda and the obviously desperate moves to please his paymaster, a former South-South Governor and a major donor to the Nobel laureate’s organisation that twisted the minds of many young Nigerians most of whom are now adults regretting toeing the path of Prof Soyinka in their teenage years.
‘’The current posturing of Prof. Wole Soyinka is totally in bad taste and drips with malice .He is attacking Omisore on account of the inability of his benefactor to hijack the national leadership of the party, which he fears will deny the former South-South governor the opportunity to become the presidential candidate of the party without any positive track record of performance in governance.
The statement by the chairman of North-East Unity and Advancement Forum (NEUAF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa, commended the APC National Secretary for his invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s development and the challenging task of nation-building.
‘’Senator Omisore is a patriot, a thinker and a fighter for good causes’’
The statement cited Omisore for honesty, industry and patriotism.
The group also praised President Muhammadu Buhari and the esteemed members of the ruling party for electing Omisore the party’s National Secretary.
The statement emphasized Omisore’s rich and inspiring profile, meritorious services to the nation and humanity, peaceful disposition and gentility.
The leaders accused Soyinka of dabbling into politics, threatening thunder against Omisore, whilst encouraging mediocrity and protecting a former South-South governor for supporting him in the last ten years.
‘’We know the tactics of Wole Soyinka. He likes to grandstand as an independent man. Many believe he is speaking for the people, campaigning for good governance and quality leadership while the reverse is the case. There are many questions begging for answers in Soyinka’s relationship with the ex-South-South governor for anyone to take him seriously’’
‘’Wole Soyinka knows that his sponsor is a weakling who obviously finds himself where he doesn’t belong’’
They argued that Soyinka’s recent remark on Omisore was borne out of selfishness but warns that Nigeria is not for sale.
‘’The energy and vigour with which Soyinka undertook a fierce political crusade against the APC National Secretary left no one in doubt that his target was to divide the ruling party, draw Omisore into a controversy and then distract him’’
The leaders urged Soyinka to stop chasing shadows that would definitely not help the cause of a current minister and former governor in the South-South geo-political zone.
‘’We have watched in astonishment how Soyinka turned himself into such a burden to the former South-South governor’’
Wole Soyinka recently lashed out at Omisore on account of the choice of the ruling party to elect the former Osun State deputy governor its National Secretary.
‘’Wole Soyinka ought to be more decent with his choices of words in addressing Omisore and should not undermine the fact that his sycophancy might land him into trouble’’
South-South women drum support for Akpabio
South-South women on Friday described the threat to issue a warrant of arrest against Senator Godswill Akpabio as a ploy to coerce the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs to toe an odd line and the Federal Government into accepting to pay for inflated, bogus and fictitious projects in the past.
‘’This is a threatening measure designed to retard the progress of the region, strip the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) of the transparency qualities it had developed in the last two years and return it to its most corrupt days’’.
They also commended stakeholders in the Niger Delta region for joining hands with Akpabio to lift the region high.
In a statement in Asaba by the spokesperson of the South-South Women Political Front (SSWPF), Dr. Doris Ogba, the women described Akpabio as a transformational figure, towering statesman and a visionary hero.
They commended the former Akwa Ibom State governor for initiating programmes and projects that directly benefited the people in various areas such as security, health, education, roads, housing, electrification, transportation, agriculture and tourism
The well respected women applauded Akpabio for redirecting the region on to the path of development.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is a thoughtful, decent and progressive fellow. His humility is boundless’’.
Particularly, the women scolded political detractors for throwing sand in the gears of the current administration to transform the region, making misleading statements and orchestrating a campaign of calumny against Akpabio, with a view to impugn his integrity.
The statement emphasized Akpabio’s politics of performance, virtue in waiting, deep appetite for change, rapid infrastructure development and peace in the Niger Delta region.
‘’The Wailing Women of the Niger Delta, The Integrity Friends for Truth and Peace Initiative (TIFPI) and others are spoilers’’ the statement added.
SDP suffers defection as Akpoti-Uduaghan, supporters join PDP
Key players in the politics of North Central on Saturday described Kogi State Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate in the 2019 governorship election, Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as an astute consensus builder, a great mobilizer and prudent manager of human and material resources.
The Kogi State politician and lawyer recently joined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
‘’Politics is all about service. We believe, very fervently, that you have so much to offer to Nigeria, particularly Kogi State in the years ahead’’
The leaders applauded the Kogi State politician for making the hardest and wisest political decision.
They urged Akpoti-Uduaghan, party supporters and well-wishers to squarely face the 2023 elections and ensure the PDP records victory in Kogi State.
‘’Akpoti-Uduaghan must join forces with other PDP chieftains to consume the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State’’.
In a press statement issued on Saturday in Lokoja and signed by the Chairman of North-Central Assembly, Alhaji Yinusa Suleiman, the leaders described Akpoti-Uduaghan’s entry into the PDP as a turning point for the opposition in Kogi State.
‘’It is indeed a step in the right direction’’
The statement emphasized Akpoti-Uduaghan’s contributions to Nigeria, her humanitarian values and superlative drive for service to fatherland.
Particularly, the leaders praised the PDP for making Nigeria a significant voice in the international community, improving the nation’s foreign reserves, paying off debts and exiting from the London and Paris Clubs of creditors.
They also commended the nation’s leading opposition party for the country’s telecommunication revolution, massive inflow of foreign investments, re-invigoration of the middle-class and massive improvement in the area of education, infrastructure, security, health, tourism and finance.
‘’We welcome Chief Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan to PDP’’
Akpoti-Uduaghan is expected to contribute to PDP’s victory and also bring her vision for the rapid development of Kogi State to fruition.
South-South Women laud Akpabio for playing credible role in Nigeria’s development agenda
Women in the South-South geo-political zone on Sunday praised Daily Independent Newspaper for taking interest in larger goals, holding a strong view regarding the Niger Delta region and promoting truth.
‘’Journalism is an arduous calling. Daily Independent is an important source of information’’
They also applauded the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio for contributing constructively to the progress of the country, bringing about deep and profound changes in the Niger Delta region and placing premium on service, integrity and efficiency.
‘’Any serious student of development in the Niger Delta region must admit that there have been far-reaching changes in the last two years’’
In a statement in Port Harcourt, the South-South women commended Daily Independent Newspaper for focusing on Akpabio’s role in developing the Niger Delta region and recognizing what has been achieved by the current administration in the region.
They described the recent pronouncement of the Wailing Women of the Niger Delta (WWND) as irresponsible, vulgar, provocative, and abusive.
The women also described calls for the termination of the award as foolish, childish and irrational.
‘’The Wailing Women of the Niger Delta is off the rails’’
The statement by the spokesperson of South-South Women Front (SSWF), Dr. Doris Ogba rebuked WWND for confusing the public on the Niger Delta issue.
‘’What is needed is a fundamental change in the perception and behavior of WWND Coordinator, Odighonin Nwadighi and her co-travellers.
The women underscored the minister’s understanding of the region, tenacity of purpose, quality of character, service to humanity, sense of duty and responsibility.
They described Akpabio’s nomination as well-deserved.
The women also urged the former Akwa Ibom State governor and Senate Minority Leader not to allow the negative attitude of Nwadighi to crush his spirit.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio believes in the rapid development of the Niger Delta region. Since his appointment, he has been alive to his duty to the people of the Niger Delta region. He has worked assiduously to transform the region. And he has proved his genuine desire to reposition the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)’’
Daily Independent Newspaper recently nominated Akpabio as the Minister of the Year.
Women in the South-South geo-political zone on Tuesday applauded the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio for imprinting his integrity on all that he did in the private sector, Akwa Ibom State and the Senate.
The women also commended Akpabio for pouring out his milk of kindness to the Niger Delta people and contributing to the stability of the polity.
At the inauguration of the South-South Women Political Front (SSWPF) in Port Harcourt, the women appealed to Nigerians in the Diaspora as well as foreigners to put pressure on Akpabio to contest the 2023 presidential election.
‘’Mr. President is comfortable with the prospect of Akpabio taking over from him. The Niger Delta Affairs Minister is hardworking, honest, suave and accommodating. He is in the best position to serve the country’’
The inauguration attracted hundreds of women across the length and breadth of the South-South geo-political zone.
The women spoke on physical development in the Niger Delta region, judicious utilization of funds, vision, discipline and credibility.
Spokesperson of SSWPF, Dr. Doris Ogba disclosed to reporters after the meeting in Port Harcourt that they had gone far in their discussion with prominent politicians from the North, South East and South West on power shift come 2023.
‘’ Senator Godswill Akpabio has political credibility and strong network across the country. He is a detribalized man and a man of the people. He is building bridges of peace and understanding between the South and the North of this country’’
The women praised Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and other ethnic groups in the region for supporting Akpabio.
They also pounced on the leadership of the project Niger Delta (PND).
‘’The comments made by Timpre Ebebi are offensive, bigoted and disgusting. He does not speak on behalf of the region and his views certainly don’t reflect those of the region’s leaders’’
The women emphasized continuous investment in infrastructure, security, education and health in the region.
They also highlighted Akpabio’s devotion to moral purity, capacity for honesty, anti-corruption posture and the critical need to work together in view of moving the region to the next level.
Afegbua to Atiku: You are not destined to be president
Former Edo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Kassim Afegbua on Monday dismissed insinuations from some quarters that he had anything personal against Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.
‘’Following my interrogation of the Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s presidential aspiration and the urgent need to cede the nomination of the PDP ticket to the Southern part of Nigeria, the alarm bells have been let loose. Expectedly, I have been called all manner of names and accused wrongly, just to extract a pound of flesh from me for daring to question the rationale for Atiku presidency in 2023 at the age of Methuselah. I do not have anything personal against Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, but I disagree with his latest resolve at being a professional aspirant or perpetual candidate from 1991 till date. Politics has a process and timing’’.
He also advised the country’s former vice president not to hesitate to contribute his own quota in his capacity as a senior citizen towards the development of the nation.
‘’Alhaji Atiku is mortally misplaced at this moment. Having put up such a strong showing in 2019, I thought very sensibly, that was the climax of a journey that started in 1990 when he initially aspired to preside over the country with Late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, easily called M.K.O Abiola. Alhaji was in that equation even though at the end of the day, he was prevailed upon to step down for MKO Abiola. And the rest is history’’.
In a statement in Abuja on Monday, Afegbua said the age of methuselah in Nigeria politics was no longer fashionable.
‘’Nigeria is a plural society with several political interests competing for attention. It is a country of many tribal leanings and clannish configurations. After the EndSars protest and the lukewarm attitude of the current president before he reluctantly addressed the nation, it became obvious that the age of methuselah in Nigeria politics was no longer fashionable. Nigerians now yearn for younger leadership who is upwardly mobile to preside over the affairs of the nation, leaders who have the technical ability and managerial acumen to preside over our disparities and ethnicities, and create a balance towards national cohesion and stability. Nigerians are looking forward to welcoming a new dawn in our body.of politics, some.kind of paradigm shift that would.give opportunity to our younger generation to politically assume a pride of place in the scheme of things’’
The former spokesman of Atiku said for stability and good governance to be achieved in Nigeria, there must be a rejection of travelling the road of the aged.
‘’ President Buhari has not helped matters. He has raised very curious remarks about the sanctity of travelling the road of the aged. Aside from being taciturn, president Buhari is not creative and result-driven. His go-slow style has affected our reading of the older generations who appear unwilling to quit the stage while the ovation is still loud. Buhari’s standoffish attitude and leadership weakness has become Atiku’s albatross. President Buhari has pointedly declared that at 79, working 6 to 8 hours daily is no joke, reason why it will be an exercise in self-destruct to chart the course of an Atiku post Buhari era’’.
He urged Atiku to honourably quit the stage for others to try their luck.
‘’From 1990 till date, Atiku Abubakar has featured in our politics at regular intervals. Remove 32 years away from Alhaji Atiku’s age; you will readily see the beauty.of a young man who got involved at such a middle age to seek the presidency of the country. After 32 years, he should honourably quit the stage for others to try their luck. That is the beauty of life’s evolutionary process. Seeking for that same position which he sought for in 1990 at this age and time is like performing a surgical operation with a blunt scalpel. His closest was the 2019 experience. Bookmakers said he won the election, but INEC thought otherwise’’
Afegbua lamented how Atiku vanished to thin air after the 2019 presidential election.
‘’After the 2019 election, when the dust of that election had not settled, when tempers were still high and emotions were still boiling, Alhaji Atiku simply vanished to thin air. He was no where to be seen. His next address was Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. When the party members wanted to see him, they had to travel to Dubai. The tribunal came, and Alhaji was nowhere near the courts. Imagine how it would have been seeing him with his Lawyers inside the courtroom, it would have given a sense of motivation and encouragement to all the factors that participated in that election. We waited, kept our eyes on the road, thinking he would join us. Alas!! He was away in the comfort zone of Dubai’s architectural wonders while we remained here in Nigeria like orphans or fatherless children. The tribunal case ended on a loss note. That was to mark another evolutionary watershed in the history of electoral petitions in Nigeria. But in all of the actions, Alhaji Atiku was absent’’.
He said it was time to discuss power shift to the Southern part of the country in 2023.
‘’When they are seeking for election, they try to act as father-figure, pretending to have the interest of the people at heart, but when you need them to give you protection, they hide in the comfort zone of their empire. For those of us who were Spokesmen of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, it was difficult getting to sit Alhaji Atiku down to robustly engage, at least to glean from his perspectives on issues. After the election, and after his escape from the shores of Nigeria, there was no post-election thank you. And this is not about material gratification. Far from it! It was simply by way of hosting a meeting to say; guys, you all are great. You made me proud and gave your all. I appreciate. No way!!. Instead, for two years, Alhaji Atiku was in Dubai, and left us in the lurch. When he returned to the country and the idea of recontesting struck his mind, he wrote personalized letters to some chosen associates, supporters and stakeholders. When I got my own letter, I asked a couple of questions. Aside from being a regular face in the political firmament of Nigeria, like Robert Mugabe to Zimbabweans, Alhaji Atiku’s aspiration was wrongly footed. The pendulum of the political equations and algorithms has to shift to the Southern part of the country in 2023’’.
He urged Atiku to support a younger element from the south as a way to assuage the feelings of the people.
‘’After an unbroken 8 years run by President Buhari, it will be immoral for any Northerner to aspire to govern the country on another run of 8 years. That would be injustice of the first order. Even if the equation becomes so compelling, we could opt for a younger element to fill the void. Contesting for presidential elections since 1990 till date without success is enough indication that he was not destined to be. At this age and time, I would rather he supports a younger element from the south as a way to assuage the feelings of the people. Political greed and selfishness has its own undercurrent. Just like power and its aphrodisiac, it makes men blind to their real intentions. Their eyes will be fixated on the aplomb of power, its allure and appurtenances. But the dynamics of the moment and the learned experiences from President Buhari’s gloomy and uneventful leadership have combined to hurt the dialectics of an Atiku aspiration’’.
Specifically, Afegbua called for geo-political zones balancing through robust interactions and constructive engagement.
‘’The country must consciously engage with diverse interests across the land. Individual and collective interests must be cultivated. Geopolitical zones balancing through robust interactions and constructive engagement are the required process to build national cohesion. And with the way the country has become, a Southern presidency is one that will invariably calm frayed nerves and put paid to some agitations that have been threatening the unity of the country’’.
He urged Nigerians not to devote time, energy and resources in championing the aspirations of a man who has been a perpetual aspirant and a recurring decimal in our national politics since 1990
‘’The route I have taken is one borne out of my deep conviction that Nigeria needs to chart a new course of action. It is one that reminds me that if we choose to do things differently, we will achieve greater success than devote time, energy and resources in championing the aspirations of a man who has been a perpetual aspirant and a recurring decimal in our national politics since 1990. I hold no grudge. It is out of love that I have spoken truth to the man, and I welcome all the insults and abuses. Not long, my interrogations would yield the desired result and I do hope that Alhaji Atiku would not end up gnashing his teeth to lament the turn out of events with the usual malaproprian bluff; had I know. The resources he intends to lavish at this political contestation should serve other purposes that could impact on the wellbeing of his followers and supporters. The binoculars for the 2023 presidential contest does not pick the image of Alhaji Abubakar. The earlier he quits the race, the better for his cherished history, the better for his political trajectory. Those who are waiting to profit from his involvement might not like my invocations, but in the long run, it will form a basis to assess the totality of his political emanations as he ages on’’.
The Edo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain advised Atiku to learn from Mugabe’s journey in Zimbabwe that ended in infamy and public disgrace.
‘’At 77 in 2023, I will rather quit politics, such a vocation where insults are hurled at you, than stay put in the name of putting up a try. When the sunshine of Mugabe of Zimbabwe was ebbing, he frowned at those who gave him honest advice and romanced those praise singers who said he was the father of the nation of Zimbabwe. At the end, his fall from glory was the denouement of a journey that ended in infamy and public disgrace. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, I still wish you well’’.
IS ATIKU THE MUGABE OF NIGERIA POLITICS?
Following my interrogation of the Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s presidential aspiration and the urgent need to cede the nomination of the PDP ticket to the Southern part of Nigeria, the alarm bells have been let loose. Expectedly, I have been called all manner of names and accused wrongly, just to extract a pound of flesh from me for daring to question the rationale for Atiku presidency in 2023 at the age of Methuselah. I do not have anything personal against Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, but I disagree with his latest resolve at being a.professional aspirànt or perpetual candidate from 1991 till date. Politics has a process and timing. The timing for a fresh mandate for Alhaji Atiku is mortally misplaced at this moment. Having put up such a strong showing in 2019, I thought very sensibly, that was the climax of a journey that started in 1990 when he initially aspired to preside over the country with Late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, easily called M.K.O Abiola. Alhaji was in that equation even though at the end of the day, he was prevailed upon to step down for MKO Abiola. And the rest is history.
Nigeria is a plural society with several political interests competing for attention. It is a country of many tribal leanings and clannish configurations. After the EndSars protest and the lukewarm attitude of the current president before he reluctantly addressed the nation, it became obvious that the age of methuselah in Nigeria politics was no longer fashionable. Nigerians now yearn for younger leadership who is upwardly mobile to preside over the affairs of the nation, leaders who have the technical ability and managerial acumen to preside over our disparities and ethnicities, and create a balance towards national cohesion and stability. Nigerians are looking forward to welcoming a new dawn in our body.of politics, some.kind of paradigm shift that would.give opportunity to our younger generation to politically assume a pride of.place in the scheme of.things. President Buhari has not helped matters. He has raised very curious remarks about the sanctity.of travelling the road of the aged. Aside from being taciturn, president Buhari is not creative and result-driven. His go-slow style has affected our reading of the older generations who appear unwilling to quit the stage while the ovation is still loud. Buhari’s standoffish attitude and leadership weakness has become Atiku’s albatross. President Buhari has pointedly declared that at 79, working 6 to 8 hours daily is no joke, reason why it will be an exercise in self destruct to chart the course of an Atiku post Buhari era.
From 1990 till date, Atiku Abubakar has featured in our politics at regular intervals. Remove 32 years away from Alhaji Atiku’s age, you will readily see the beauty.of a young man who got involved at such a middle age to seek the presidency of the country. After 32 years, he should honourably quit the stage for others to try their luck. That is the beauty of life’s evolutionary process. Seeking for that same position which he sought for in 1990 at this age and time is like performing a surgical operation with a blunt scalpel. His closest was the 2019 experience. Bookmakers said he won the election, but INEC thought otherwise. After the 2019 election, when the dust of that election had not settled, when tempers were still high and emotions were still boiling, Alhaji Atiku simply vanished to thin air. He was no where to be seen. His next address was Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. When the party members wanted to see him, they had to travel to Dubai. The tribunal came, and Alhaji was nowhere near the courts. Imagine how it would have been seeing him with his Lawyers inside the courtroom, it would have given a sense of.motivation and encouragement to all the factors that participated in that election. We waited, kept our eyes on the road, thinking he would join us. Alas!! He was away in the comfort zone of Dubai’s architectural wonders while we remained here in Nigeria like orphans or fatherless children. The tribunal case ended on a loss note. That was to mark another evolutionary watershed in the history of electoral petitions in Nigeria. But in all of the actions, Alhaji Atiku was absent.
When they are seeking for election, they try to act as father-figure, pretending to have the interest of the people at heart, but when you need them to give you protection, they hide in the comfort zone of their empire. For those of us who were Spokesmen of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, it was difficult getting to sit Alhaji Atiku down to robustly engage, at least to glean from his perspectives on issues. After the election, and after his escape from the shores of Nigeria, there was no post-election thank you. And this is not about material gratification. Far from it! It was simply by way of hosting a meeting to say; guys, you all are great. You made me proud and gave your all. I appreciate. No way!!. Instead, for two years, Alhaji Atiku was in Dubai, and left us in the lurch. When he returned to the country and the idea of recontesting struck his mind, he wrote personalized letters to some chosen associates, supporters and stakeholders. When I got my own letter, I asked a couple of questions. Aside from being a regular face in the political firmament of Nigeria, like Robert Mugabe to Zimbabweans, Alhaji Atiku’s aspiration was wrongly footed. The pendulum of the political equations and algorithms has to shift to the Southern part of the country in 2023.
After an unbroken 8 years run by President Buhari, it will be immoral for any Northerner to aspire to govern the country on another run of 8 years. That would be injustice of the first order. Even if the equation becomes so compelling, we could opt for a younger element to fill the void. Contesting for presidential elections since 1990 till date without success is enough indication that he was not destined to be. At this age and time, I would rather he supports a younger element from the south as a way to assuage the feelings of the people. Political greed and selfishness has its own undercurrent. Just like power and its aphrodisiac, it makes men blind to their real intentions. Their eyes will be fixated on the aplomb of.power, its allure and appurtenances. But the dynamics of the moment and the learned experiences from President Buhari’s gloomy and uneventful leadership, have combined to hurt the dialectics of an Atiku aspiration. The country must consciously engage with diverse interests across the land. Individual and collective interests must be cultivated. Geopolitical zones balancing through robust interactions and constructive engagement are the required process to build national cohesion. And with the way the country has become, a Southern presidency is one that will invariably calm frayed nerves and put paid to some agitations that have been threatening the unity of the country.
The route I have taken is one borne out of my deep conviction that Nigeria needs to chart a new course of action. It is one that reminds me that if we choose to do things differently, we will achieve greater success than devote time, energy and resources in championing the aspirations of a man who has been a perpetual aspirànt and a recurring decimal in our national politics since 1990. I hold no grudge. It is out of love that I have spoken truth to the man, and I welcome all the insults and abuses. Not long, my interrogations would yield the desired result and I do hope that Alhaji Atiku would not end up gnashing his teeth to lament the turn out of events with the usual malaproprian bluff; had I know. The resources he intends to lavish at this political contestation should serve other purposes that could impact on the wellbeing of his followers and supporters. The binoculars for the 2023 presidential contest does not pick the image of Alhaji Abubakar. The earlier he quits the race, the better for his cherished history, the better for his political trajectory. Those who are waiting to profit from his involvement might not like my invocations, but in the long run, it will form a basis to assess the totality of his political emanations as he ages on. At 77 in 2023, I will rather quit politics, such a vocation where insults are hurled at you, than stay put in the name of putting up a try. When the sunshine of Mugabe of Zimbabwe was ebbing, he frowned at those who gave him honest advise and romanced those praise singers who said he was the father of the nation of Zimbabwe. At the end, his fall from glory was the denouement of a journey that ended in infamy and public disgrace. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, I still wish you well.
He earned his undergraduate degree from University of Port-Harcourt and a Master’s degree from University of Lagos.
Ebireri has a postgraduate diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, a diploma in English from University of Lagos and other certificates from Broadcast Academy, Republican Institute, College of Education Technical, Akoka and the Independent Journalism Centre.
His curiosity for learning and love of teaching led him to become a teacher and later a journalist.
Prominent leaders in the South-South geo-political zone on Thursday said Obukohwo Monday Arthur Whiskey, Ovie of Idjerhe kingdom did not understand the objectives of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) forensic audit and the recommendations.
They also commended Chief Godswill Akpabio for pursuing key priorities, paving the way to a better future for the people and providing vibrant leadership in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
In a statement in Asaba, the leaders scolded the Idjerhe monarch for embarking on steps that further present Niger Delta leaders as people supporting corruption and working against the transparency and development agenda of the current administration.
They described the Idjerhe monarch as a divisive element and his recent interview as a shameful exercise.
The leaders praised Akpabio for the redirection of the affairs and profile of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and Steps to insure lasting dignity for the Niger Delta people
The statement underscored the reform and re-direction of NDDC, disdain for flippant monarchs, peace, economic growth and empowerment.
Signed by the Chairman of South-South Front (SSF), Chief John Harry, the leaders hailed Akpabio for the reallocation of public spending towards essential infrastructure, security, health and education.
Specifically, the leaders applauded Akpabio for redeeming the zone’s standing, maintaining meaningful dialogue with the stakeholders, strengthening NDDC, increasing transparency, reducing corruption and delivering efficiently basic services to the people.
Meeting under the aegis of South-South Front to address the common problems and interests of the zone, the leaders condemned the Idjerhe monarch for his weak argument, campaign of calumny against President Muhammadu Buhari, Akpabio and the good people of the South-South geo-political zone.
They also criticized the bad sense of language and repetition by the monarch.